So...I posted my story on Facebook....

I struggled with the decision to tell my friends and family of my decision to have this surgery.

Because of where I live - in relation to most of them - and of course this being 2017 - the decade of Facebook - I decided to  just put it out there.

When I had my Lap Band surgery in 2013 - I told myself that I would be honest with everyone and tell them - but I found that as my journey progressed - I found myself not telling people why I was losing weight - and to be honest -t he weight didn't come off quite as quickly as I ws hoping - so the dramatic lose just wasn't there.

This time - I know the weight will come off quickly - and people will notice and ask - so I decided to just tell them.

I know it's nobody's business but mine -and I know this is a very touchy subject for some - but the main reason why I decided to tell - and in such public forum - was because I felt that (in my own personal situation) that if I didn't - and wasn't honest - it would some how make my decision to have this surgery "shameful" or  "a dirty little secret".

I have to say that the responses I have received from nearly 100 people and counting - have been astounding!  I am blown away by all the love and support I have received - some from people who I have not spoken to or seen in years (good 'ol Facebook!)

I feel that I have all these people - including all of you on this forum - behind me for support.

The other thing that was shocking to me - was the amount of friends I have who have had this surgery (I already knew of a couple), and the amount of people my friends know who have had the surgery done as well - and not one of them have had a negative result.

I know this is not for everyone - and if you choose to keep it private - then that is your decision - and I will always support everyone's personal decision no matter what it is - but I just had to share my experience.

I was always very open about my surgery as I know people like to talk no matter what, stay obese and they talk, get slimmer and they talked.  I wanted to get in front of the rumours that I knew would start up as I started to lose.  A few didn't quite understand why I did what I did but frankly didn't care what they thought.  Most were supportive and some say nothing and others continue to judge.  EFF them is my philosophy.  I am not ashamed that I had medical intervention to help me with a medical issue, it's no different than seeking chemo for cancer IMO.  Kudos to you for sharing your story because you feel comfortable doing so.  Those that want to keep it private that is their choice as well and I respect their choice.  We all have to do what makes us feel best, be that telling nobody or telling everybody.

absolutely!

So glad that everyone is being so accepting and supportive.  I only told some people but may tell more after I have the actual surgery.

I chose to wait until I had my surgery date - and things were "confirmed" so to speak

That's my plan too. 

:)

I started off wanted to be very private about it. i wasn't going to tell anyone outside immediate family. It was like a badge of shame I thought I wore for not being able to "kick it". Then, after the very positive and supportive reaction of a few folks, friends, cousins, colleagues, I felt that badge of shame turn into one of pride for making a life changing decision and not giving up. You're strength to stick with the process, all the appointments, all the research, all the months of planning and now, it's almost hear for you. That fear of "ive tried everything else, this isn't going to work for me" vanished after waking up in the hospital. The TWH team is incredible (in my own experience last week at least). I had Dr. Jackson as my surgeon and I think he's one of the nicest people I've met, very compassionate. The nurses were stellar. I wish I could share with you my excitement for the coming weeks. Family, friends, texts, calls, facebook, emails, everyone cares for you and respects your choice. We have to work our way through the shame we've historically felt and replace it with pride! The count down is on! Big hug and good luck! 

Beautifully said - and thank you for the well wishes - My day will be here before I know it :)

That's awesome!  I get so nervous when I tell people.  I've told about 10 people other than people in my family. Only 2 has said it wasn't a good idea as they know someone that didn't follow the guidelines and lost her life - however she wasn't taking her vitamins/supplements, still eating junk and not drinking water and still smoking. She also didn't go through the bariatic program. I just chalked him up to not being educated about the education and process we have to go through.  

My husband wasn't wanting me to tell anyone about the surgery.  He wants people to think I did it on my own.  :( 

I'm sure I'll tell others eventually.  

Good for you! I'm happy you have lots of support! It's awesome to see.